Real Joy and Pleasure

"You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." (Psalm 16:11 NIV)

An unknown author wrote, "The best thing in life isn't a thing." Of course, he didn't say whether the best thing  was free. Yet, some "possessions" are more valuable than the gold of this world that perishes and passes out of our possession so easily. Some "possessions" are more evaluable than the expensive but elusive pleasures we chase.

Let's consider for a moment: family is more valuable than things; marriage is more valuable than things; children are more valuable than things; friends are more valuable than things; faith in Christ and hope in God are more valuable than things. These possessions can't be exchanged or transferred in the market place, but they increase in value the longer we keep and cherish them.

Israel's King Solomon was more than qualified to teach about the value of things. For a good lesson on the value of things, read Solomon's counsel in Proverbs 23:1-18. Our greatest wealth is in our eternal hope! Consequently, our hope is also what gives us the greatest joy and pleasure.

"For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (Matthew 6:21 & Luke 12:34 KJV)

We may reluctantly admit our desire to possess more things, but we instinctively know that joy isn't in the possessing of stuff. Joy is in the constant, rock-solid relationship. Joy is in the laughter of children and their antics. Joy is in the quiet moments spent together with family and friends. Pleasure lies in the immediate challenges of walking with God in the present moment. Ah, yes, the best thing!

Dear Father, thank you for your very best. Remind us to seek for true joy and pleasure in life. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today filled with real joy and pleasure,